Council votes to expand gambling at city card room

Council vote gives casino a monopoly

The Paso Robles City Council at its regular meeting Tuesday night voted to expand gambling operations at the city’s only casino.

In May 2013, the Paso Robles Police Department received a request from Paso Robles Central Coast Casino on Black Oak Drive to amend provisions in the city’s municipal code regarding card and billiards rooms.

The council gave the casino a monopoly in town by allowing the card room to set up up the city’s maximum of 12 card tables. Here is a summary of the approval.

The casino may increase the maximum number of card tables permitted in a card room from 4 tables to 12 tables.

The casino can raise the restriction on wagering limits, from $200 to $500.

The casino may allow bets by owners, operators, or employees while off duty, but not on duty.

The casino operators also indicated that they may add a restaurant and bar, according to a report from Police Chief Robert Burton. The police department addressed each request for the council and stated it maintains a “neutral position” on all requests, as long as they do not appear to compromise public safety.

The city council will meet at city hall, 1000 Spring St., on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 7:30 p.m.